Analysis of Cyprus parliamentary election trends from 1960 to 2021

A study by the Dedomenon group, led by Neofytos Aristodimou and Michalis Michailidis, examines Cyprus parliamentary elections from 1960 to 2021. The research highlights a significant rise in voter abstention, reaching a peak in 2021 where approximately one-third of the electorate did not vote. This trend towards higher abstention began prior to the legislative change making voting non-compulsory in 2017. Regarding parliamentary composition, the study notes a persistent underrepresentation of women, with only 26 women elected out of 292 total members since 1960. The late Vassos Lyssarides is identified as the longest-serving member of parliament, holding his position for 45 years across 8 terms. Data shows that the electorate size has grown by 81% since 1981, rising from 309,000 to 558,000 voters by 2021. The authors aim to provide accessible statistical insights to aid in informed decision-making regarding societal issues.